Penguin tetra Care Guide

Care Process

The Penguin tetra is a resilient and social fish that thrives in a group setting. They are best kept in schools, with a minimum of six individuals to ensure their well-being and mimic their natural habitat. These fish exhibit peaceful behavior, making them suitable for community tanks. Handling them is only moderately challenging, making them appropriate for aquarists with some experience.

Water Parameters

The ideal pH range for Penguin tetras is between 6.5 and 7.5. They prefer water temperatures ranging from 24°C to 28°C. Regular monitoring and maintenance of water parameters are crucial to prevent stress and promote the health of the tetras.

Tank Setup

Penguin tetras can be placed in various levels of the aquarium, including as surface, mid-tank, and bottom dwellers. Tanks for these fish should ideally have varied zones to accommodate their exploratory nature. Ensuring adequate space is vital as each fish requires about 3 liters of water. Since they are not particularly territorial, they are compatible with many tank setups and can peacefully coexist with other non-aggressive species.

Feeding

Penguin tetras thrive on a varied diet. Feed them a combination of flakes, pellets, and vegetable matter. For added protein, consider including bloodworms, brine shrimp, tubifex worms, and daphnia. Additionally, algae wafers, frozen shrimp, and micro worms can be offered to supplement their diet. Color enhancing food and freeze-dried foods might also be used to maintain vibrant coloration.

Compatibility and Social Behavior

Known for their sociable nature, Penguin tetras do well in community tanks alongside other peaceful species. They are very peaceful, exhibiting low aggression and mildly territorial behavior only during specific conditions such as breeding. Their slightly increased aggression during breeding seasons can be managed by providing them with ample space and hiding places.

Affordability and Maintenance

Penguin tetras are an affordable choice for aquariums because of their lower rarity and resilient nature. Maintenance requirements are relatively low, making them a suitable option for aquarists who prefer a tank with modest upkeep demands.